Emmerdale’s Jai Sharma faces a tense confrontation over Eric Pollard’s ongoing blackmail next week. Laurel Thomas becomes suspicious of Eric’s rude behavior, prompting her to question what’s going on. Jai has been under Eric’s thumb for weeks, ever since the shrewd businessman started blackmailing him about forcing Jai’s biological father, Amit, out of the village and cutting Amit’s son, Sonny, out of any ownership of The Hop.

In upcoming scenes, Laurel notices the tension between Jai and Eric, although Jai manages to hide his anger. Later, Sonny seeks Laurel’s advice on handling his partner Nikki Milligan’s desire to leave the village. Unaware of Jai’s predicament, Laurel advises Sonny that Jai would be devastated if he left and stresses the importance of compromise in a healthy relationship. Sonny is left contemplating Laurel’s advice, but it remains uncertain whether Nikki can persuade him to leave the village.

Laurel’s suspicions about Eric deepen after he fails to pay for his drinks. When she questions his behavior, Eric deflects by suggesting she talk to Jai. Taking his advice, Laurel heads to Mulberry Cottage to confront Jai about Eric’s attitude. Will a nervous Jai admit the truth to Laurel?

Chris Bisson, who plays Jai, mentioned earlier this year that Jai’s darker side has emerged following his revenge on Amit. This incident has changed Jai’s perspective on life and relationships, potentially making him more ruthless. Jai feels he has been taken for a fool and vows not to let it happen again, hinting that “bad Jai” might be back.